Quartile rating: 8.5/10 · 1 rating
The lively João Grilo and the sly Chicó are poor guys living in the hinterland who cheat a bunch of people in a small town in Northeastern Brazil. When they die, they have to be judged by Christ, the Devil and the Virgin Mary before they are admitted to paradise.
A Dog's Will (O Auto da Compadecida) is a celebrated Brazilian classic adapted from Ariano Suassuna's beloved play. The plot is richly layered, blending picaresque comedy, social satire, and theological fantasy with remarkable wit and narrative momentum — a genuine 4. The acting, led by Mateus Nachtergaele and Selton Mello, is exceptional and deeply rooted in the Northeastern Brazilian comedic tradition, earning a 4. Cinematography is competent and evocative of the sertão setting but doesn't push beyond solid craftsmanship, landing at 3. Novelty is high — the film's voice, tone, and blend of folk Catholic mysticism, northeastern Brazilian humor, and theatrical heritage make it genuinely one-of-a-kind, earning a 4. The ending — the divine judgment sequence — is both emotionally resonant and thematically triumphant, a well-earned 4.